Polypropylene pipes are actively used to create heating and water supply systems. Thanks to simple installation and low weight, they are confidently replacing copper and steel structures. To install communications, a soldering iron is used, which not only melts efficiently, but also does not leave a smell and does not stretch the edges of the soldering joint.
Soldering iron for PCB is in high demand among workers
What is a soldering iron for PP pipes
Polypropylene materials have many advantages, which is why they are in high demand:
- strength;
- light weight;
- long service life;
- low price.
The advantage is simple installation, which eliminates the need to call a specialist, since the installation work can be performed by a person even without experience. The ease of installation is explained by the melting point, which is equal to 250-260 degrees Celsius. Such a plus could not go unnoticed, so a special device was created to work with PPB.
For reference! A soldering iron for propylene pipes is also called a soldering iron for plastic pipes. A tool is used for installing pipelines, or rather connecting them. Also, the tool can be called an iron because of its characteristic shape.
The device has the following design:
- body with handle;
- heating platform;
- stand;
- nozzles of various diameters.
Soldering with such a tool takes place without unnecessary difficulties.
Types of welding of polypropylene pipes
There are 3 types of welding of polypropylene pipes.
- Electrofusion
This is carried out through the use of special couplings, which are supplemented with heating parts. The ends of the PPR that have been soldered are not further processed.
The elements are connected without sagging, due to which the electrofusion type of welding has gained immense popularity, despite its high cost.
Important! This welding technique is possible in hard-to-reach places.
- Bell-shaped
Suitable for connecting small diameter pipes. With this method, one pipe is inserted into another through a socket.
- Butt
This method is relevant for joining pressure pipelines with a diameter of at least 63 mm. It is worth noting that for home purposes, the butt method is not used.
Which method the master should prefer depends on:
- a tool that the master has;
- pipeline loads;
- criteria for PP pipes: diameter, wall thickness, etc.
Process technology
Installation of polypropylene pipes is a simple process in which the correct use of nozzles is one of the key points. To connect pipes made of polypropylene, it is necessary to go through a number of steps.
- Pipe cutting. If you have to lay a long pipeline, as well as when its bends are required, then the pipe should be cut into appropriate pieces. The presence of burrs must be excluded. The ends of the pipe are chamfered.
- Cleansing. The ends of the connected pipes must be cleaned of dirt, oil stains, dust and traces of rust. This is a guarantee of obtaining a high-quality and airtight seam. Final cleaning can be done using sandpaper.
- Installation of nozzles of the required size.
- Plug in the soldering iron with the nozzle installed on it.
- If the soldering iron has a thermal control function, you should set the required temperature. If it is missing, you need to make sure that the corresponding red indicator on the soldering iron lights up. After this, you need to wait a little so that the heating element has time to heat up. After this, the indicator light will go out.
- Insert the end of the pipe into the nozzle and hold it there for a few seconds, which will be sufficient to melt the polypropylene.
- Connect the pipes using heated fittings.
- After welding the pipes, you must allow at least one minute for them to cool. At this time, the pipes must not be rotated or moved.
It must be remembered that the nozzles must be securely fastened before starting the process.
Design and principle of operation
The soldering iron for polypropylene pipes resembles an iron due to its characteristic working part. It heats up to a high temperature - 260-300 degrees and heats up the nozzles that are installed on both sides. Such attachments are called matrices.
One nozzle performs the function of melting the outer part, and the second heats the inner part of the fitting.
Two elements are held on the instrument at once, and then they are joined. They harden quickly, forming a strong connection. According to this scheme, all elements are connected.
Using straight and curved fittings, parts are prepared for different areas. Often, a soldering iron for polypropylene is installed on a special stand and soldering is performed at a prepared workplace.
For regular work, you should choose models from well-known manufacturers
Soldering iron attachments
At home, a PVC pipe soldering iron is used to work with polypropylene parts with a diameter of up to 63 mm. For comfortable work, special components are used.
The following types of nozzles are used at home:
- No. 20 - chosen for soldering pipes with a diameter of 0.5 inches;
- No. 25 - suitable for products with a diameter of 0.75 inches;
- No. 40 - for products with diameters of 1.25 inches.
Other nozzles, which are larger in size, are usually chosen by installers who connect large diameter pipes (10-110 ml or more).
The soldering iron can be used for both home and outdoor use.
Criterias of choice
When choosing a soldering iron, you should pay attention not only to its cost and brand, but also to its technical qualities. So what do you need to consider?
Electric power
The main characteristic that you should pay attention to when choosing a soldering iron is its power, since the maximum diameter of the pipes and their subsequent welding depend on this.
Important! The higher the power of the device, the larger the size of the product the master will be able to connect.
For example, a 1.5 kW tool is capable of connecting pipes from 20 to 50 mm, but a more powerful 1.7 kW tool can solder parts up to 63 mm.
The tool comes with a special suitcase and additional tools.
Device contents
Soldering irons are produced in the form of kits with accessories and instruments. They go on sale together with the main device in a special case.
The equipment depends on the model and brand of the manufacturer. But most often the set includes:
- stand or tube for soldering iron;
- nozzles of various diameters;
- keys for replacing parts;
- cutter;
- roulette;
- level;
- marker.
Important! The cost of a soldering iron is influenced by the configuration.
The presence of a thermostat and its design
The thermostat is responsible for setting and maintaining the operating temperature. The master can set the range from 220 to 350 degrees.
Thanks to the built-in thermostat, the technician does not have to regularly set the desired temperature with his own hands.
Pipe connection theory
Plastic pipes are connected using so-called fittings or couplings. Fittings are straight or differently curved extensions, the inner diameter of which corresponds to the outer diameter of the pipe.
Therefore, they cannot be inserted into each other in the cold. Only after warming up or reaching the natural temperature of the room, plastic pipes and fittings can be inserted into each other. After cooling, a homogeneous joint is formed, which is stronger than the pipe itself.
Which brand of soldering iron should I choose?
When choosing a soldering iron, you should pay attention to the country of manufacture and the company, as this directly affects the price=quality ratio. So, which brand is best to choose a soldering iron for polypropylene pipes:
- The first place is confidently occupied by European brands, primarily German and Czech. Here we should note such brands as Kern, Rothenberger, Dytron, which are distinguished by their most powerful technical characteristics and long service life.
- The second position is occupied by companies from Turkey and the CIS countries. Companies such as Makina Plastik, Candan, Calde are in great demand.
- Third place is occupied by soldering irons from Chinese manufacturers. Dexter is considered a popular brand. However, for professional work it is not recommended to purchase a tool made in China, but for home purposes it will be indispensable.
A tool made in China is not suitable for regular use.
How to choose a soldering iron for polypropylene pipes
For soldering PP pipes, it is recommended to choose a manual soldering iron. Based on the complexity of the work and the diameter of the products, you can choose:
- a simple tool complete with which 2-3 pairs of nozzles are sold - suitable for soldering products of 20, 25 and 32 mm;
- a device equipped with a set of 5-6 nozzles - suitable for pipes of different diameters;
- unit with an expanded set, which includes replaceable attachments and additional tools.
The main criteria for selection are the following parameters:
- Power. The heating rate of the board depends on it. To perform simple tasks, you can choose a model with a power of up to 1 kW.
- Possibility of temperature adjustment. In this case, you should pay attention to the presence of a thermostat.
- Equipment. Based on the complexity of the work ahead, you can choose simple sets or full-fledged sets that include auxiliary tools.
- Price. It is not practical to buy an expensive soldering iron for polypropylene pipes in order to perform soldering 1-2 times a year. In terms of savings, it is best to choose devices in the mid-price category.
Important! When choosing, you should pay attention to the convenience of the model. If you can’t choose a soldering iron for plastic pipes on your own, which one is better to choose, you should ask the seller.
Introduction
Welding machine for soldering polypropylene pipes
The official name of such a tool is a welding machine for soldering polypropylene pipes. The principle of its operation is to heat fittings and pipes using an electric heating element. Having reached a certain temperature, polypropylene begins to melt, two elements of the pipeline are connected in this state, they are securely fixed to each other.
Structurally, the device consists of a heating element, a handle, a stand and nozzles of different diameters. Most tools come in a protective, easy-to-carry case. You can evaluate the capabilities of each model by studying their characteristics.
The sword-shaped heating platform has a characteristic appearance; it is flat and has several holes for fixing nozzles. The rod looks like a cylinder where the nozzles are attached. Each soldering iron model is equipped with a set of nozzles for pipes of different diameters.
Best Inexpensive Pipe Soldering Irons
If we talk about a device such as a soldering iron for polypropylene pipes, the rating of the best ones will look something like this.
DIOLD ASPT-1
A good Chinese machine for polypropylene pipes. Rod or sword-shaped heater 1500 W. The set includes 6 pairs of nozzles, a pipe cutter and gloves.
Advantages:
- allows you to weld in hard-to-reach places;
- light weight - 1 kg;
- durable attachments included;
- fast heating.
Flaws:
- polyethylene plastic for the stand, which does not fit well;
- low quality pipe cutter.
Denzel DWP-2000
Owners of tools of this brand especially note the convenience of the handle, which fits well in the hand, so it is not difficult for them to carry out soldering by weight. The kit includes Teflon nozzles (6 pieces).
Advantages:
- fast warm-up;
- excellent quality nozzles;
- convenience.
Flaws:
- bad pedestal.
ELITECH SPT 1500
The tool has a universal stand, but it is difficult to weld with it in weight, since the model is heavy and equipped with a rigid handle. The power of the device is 1500 W, which is enough to quickly heat pipes with a diameter of up to 63 mm.
Advantages:
- fits perfectly on a workbench;
- The set includes 6 Teflon tips.
Flaws
- poor quality suitcase;
- Working outside the home becomes more difficult.
It is worth choosing a model that meets the price-quality requirement
Table: comparison of characteristics
Wert WPT 1600
Socket welding machine Wert WPT 1600
Wert WPT 1600 The Wert WPT 1600 tool is designed for socket welding of polypropylene pipes . The power of the device is 1600 W, which characterizes it as a high-performance soldering iron. The operating temperature range is from 0 to +300 degrees.
The soldering iron comes in a metal case with handles, making it easy to carry and store at home. The handle is made of durable plastic in green color; the set also includes a screwdriver and gloves for work. The Wert WPT 1600 device weighs 3 kg.
The device belongs to the class of household soldering irons; the sword-shaped heating platform is covered with Teflon . The set includes 4 nozzles with diameters of 20.25, 32 and 40 mm. During operation, the tool is placed on a stand; there is a heating indicator on the side - it turns off and turns on when the device is ready for use.
PROS:
- Availability
- Easy to use
- Compactness
MINUSES:
- No temperature dial
- Assembly needs some work
WERT WPT 1600
TOP 10 Best soldering irons for polypropylene pipes: review of proven models | Rating 2022
ELITECH SPT 1000
Socket welding machine ELITECH SPT 1000
ELITECH SPT 1000 This tool is distinguished by the fact that it has a rod heating platform. Block-type cooking attachments allow you to quickly connect a pipe and a fitting. The power of the unit is 1000 W; a thermostat acts as a temperature regulator from 0 to +300 degrees.
The voltage from which the tool operates is 220 V, frequency is 50 Hz. The set includes 4 nozzles for pipes with a diameter of 16, 20, 25 and 32 mm. The total weight of the kit is 2.6 kg, and the kit is equipped with a convenient red metal case.
The handle is made of polypropylene, it is equipped with anti-slip inserts so as not to drop the device during operation. On the top of the case there is a red and green indicator indicating the start of work. A long cable of 2 meters will allow you to work at a distance from the outlet, the heating time is 15 minutes.
PROS:
- Special coating of nozzles for long service life
- Light weight
- Temperature stability
- Good power and fast performance
MINUSES:
- No 40mm nozzle
- Temperature controller is not accurate
Wester DWM 1500LE
Socket welding machine Wester DWM 1500LE
Wester DWM 1500LE This model is considered one of the most popular soldering irons for polypropylene pipes . According to customer reviews, the device is easy to operate and heats up quickly and well. Its power is 1500 W, there is a thermostat inside that regulates the temperature from 0 to +300 degrees.
The input voltage of the Wester DWM 1500LE soldering iron is from 220 to 240 V, its frequency is 50-60 Hz. The kit includes 6 nozzles for pipes with a diameter of 20,25,32,40,50,63 mm . The manufacturer also provides a screwdriver in the kit, and the weight of the set is 2.2 kg.
The model is made in orange color; on the right side of the case there is a temperature regulator and two indicator buttons. The device is installed on a metal stand for ease of use. The spacious orange case allows you to quickly assemble the device for storage .
PROS:
- Fast adjustment
- Fast heating
- Easy
- Excellent selection of attachments
MINUSES:
- Unstable support
RESANTA ASPT-1000
Socket welding machine RESANTA ASPT-1000
RESANTA ASPT-1000 Another representative of soldering irons for polypropylene pipes for a small amount is a model from the company RESANTA ASPT-1000. The power of the device is 1000 W, operating frequency is 50 Hz. The temperature is regulated using a built-in thermostat.
A characteristic feature of the model is that there is no standard flat stand; instead, there are legs. This type of support is considered more stable when soldering pipes. The thermostat is located on the right, above it there are green and red indicator windows that notify you of connection to the network and temperature control.
The device is equipped with 6 nozzles - for 20,25,32,40,50 and 63 mm pipe diameter . The set also includes a screwdriver and heat-resistant gloves. The weight of the set is 2.85 kg, the nozzles are coated with non-stick Teflon.
PROS:
- Convenient metal case
- Compactness
- Good power
- Availability
MINUSES:
- Holes for couplings are located far from the edge
Review of the device for polypropylene pipes RESANTA ASPT 1000
TOP 10 Best soldering irons for polypropylene pipes: review of proven models | Rating 2022
ELITECH SPT 1500
Socket welding machine ELITECH SPT 1500
ELITECH SPT 1500 The ELITECH SPT 1500 model belongs to the middle price segment, but the main advantage of this soldering iron is considered to be its extended configuration. The set includes not only the tool itself with attachments, but also a screwdriver, tape measure, gloves and a pipe cutter . This kit allows you to have all the tools at hand and quickly weld polypropylene.
The device is made in red color and comes with a metal suitcase. Its power is 1500 W, 6 nozzles for pipe diameters 20, 25, 32, 40, 50, and 63 mm are included in the set. Due to the good configuration, the weight is 6 kg.
The handle of the device is rubberized so that it fits comfortably in the hand and does not fall out. The two heating elements are separated by different switches. The thermostat is located on the right side of the metal housing; indicators are located on the opposite side.
PROS:
- Extended equipment
- Versatility
- Heating time 15 minutes
- Teflon coating of nozzles
MINUSES:
- Short cord – 1.2 m
Elitech STP 1500 is a machine for welding polypropylene pipes.
TOP 10 Best soldering irons for polypropylene pipes: review of proven models | Rating 2022
RESANTA ASPT-2000
Socket welding machine RESANTA ASPT-2000
RESANTA ASPT-2000 The device for soldering polypropylene pipes from the RESANTA company has high power - 2000 W, so it heats up quickly. A thermostat is installed inside the unit, allowing you to regulate the temperature up to +300 degrees. The operating frequency of the device is 50 Hz.
The peculiarity of this product is that it can operate in two power modes - 1000 and 2000 W. The device comes with 6 different nozzles for pipe diameters of 20, 25, 32, 40, 50, 63 mm. The model also comes with gloves and a screwdriver.
Each of the nozzles is coated with Teflon, which extends the service life of the parts. The stand is made in the form of a single leg, divided into 4 elements . The model comes in a durable red metal case.
PROS:
- 2 operating modes
- Good temperature controller
- Fast heating
- Excellent quality welds
MINUSES:
- There is a smell when working
Review of welding machine STAVR ASPT-2000
TOP 10 Best soldering irons for polypropylene pipes: review of proven models | Rating 2022
Special PTP-1000
Socket welding machine Spets PTP-1000
Spets PTP-1000 A device with a low power of 980 W from the domestic company Spets has good equipment. The manufacturer includes 6 nozzles with non-stick coating in the set. The dimensions of the nozzles are designed for pipes with a diameter of 20,25,32,40,50 and 63 mm.
The sword-shaped platform is heated by an electric heating element with a thermostat. The operating temperature range is from +50 to +300 degrees, the operating frequency is 50 Hz. The device comes in a black metal case; inside you can also find a screwdriver and a wrench for attachments.
The total weight of the package is 3.05 kg, while the device itself weighs 1.1 kg. A convenient stand with legs will allow you to firmly fix the unit on the surface. Despite its low power, the soldering iron heats up quickly and evenly.
PROS:
- Availability
- Light weight
- Fast heating
- Good set of attachments
MINUSES:
- Unstable stand
Wester DWM 1500
Socket welding machine Wester DWM 1500
Wester DWM 1500 The Wester company offers customers a powerful and functional machine for welding polypropylene - DWM 1500. The device has a power of 1500 W, operating frequency - 50 Hz with an input voltage of 220 V. The thermostat allows you to adjust the temperature up to + 300 degrees.
A classic set of 6 attachments with a diameter from 20 to 63 mm, as well as gloves, a tape measure, a screwdriver and a pipe cutter - all this fits into a durable case for the device. The weight of the complete set is 5 kg. The model is not only equipped with a comfortable leg, but also has a clamp that allows you to fix the support.
Installation work can be carried out in any position, since the sword-shaped platform allows you to keep the unit suspended. The heating indicator and power button are located at the top of the case; 2 nozzles can be installed on the heating plate at once - this significantly speeds up the pace of work .
PROS:
- High quality welding
- Availability
- Good equipment
- Neat assembly
MINUSES:
- Short cord
USP 80620
Soldering iron for plastic pipes USP 80620
USP 80620 This soldering iron for polypropylene has a power of 1500 W. The device heats up quickly: at an ambient temperature of +25 degrees it will warm up in 5 minutes . If the temperature is zero, you will have to wait 15 minutes.
The device is made in red color, the case contains 4 nozzles - 20, 25, 32 and 40 mm for different pipe diameters. The kit includes a small water level, the long cable is an advantage . Its length is 2.5 meters, which means that soldering can be carried out in another room where there is no outlet.
Thanks to the holes for nozzles on the body, you can work with two different pipe diameters at once. The active parts of the electric heater are double insulated.
PROS:
- Long cord
- Average price category
- 4 nozzles
- Good equipment
MINUSES:
- Plastic case
Bort BRS-1000
Socket welding machine Bort BRS-1000
Bort BRS-1000 One of the simple but productive models with a power of 1000 W from the Bort BRS-1000 company. High-quality soldering iron for polypropylene, made in turquoise color with a flat stand . Input voltage for operation is 230 V, frequency is 50-60 Hz.
Bort BRS-1000 is equipped with 6 additional nozzles ranging in size from 20 to 63 mm in diameter. The manufacturer completes the set with a screwdriver, a wrench for attachments and a plastic case . The device belongs to the household class, the nozzles are covered with Teflon, and the weight of the unit is 2 kg.
PROS:
- Heating time – 10 minutes
- Simple execution
- 6 nozzles
MINUSES:
- Plastic case
Machine for welding plastic pipes BORT BRS-1000. Which one should I buy?
TOP 10 Best soldering irons for polypropylene pipes: review of proven models | Rating 2022
The best soldering irons for pipes must have a thermostat, which allows precise temperature control. All proposed models are characterized by high quality work, the welds are sealed and the pipes are not afraid of leakage. Having bought such a device for home, you can independently solder the plumbing and heating system.
The best soldering irons for welding polypropylene pipes combination of price and quality
The best soldering irons that meet the price-quality requirement are:
DIOLD ASPT-4
Advantages:
- good equipment;
- high level of heating;
- ergonomics;
- low cost - budget option.
Flaws:
- small suitcase;
- bad cutter
RESANTA ASPT-1000
The soldering iron is cheap, but reliable, and it copes with its functions perfectly.
Advantages:
- low price;
- excellent soldering quality.
Flaws:
- unfinished appearance.
The best professional pipe soldering irons
Among the best professional pipe soldering irons, the following are worth noting.
Rothenberge
The soldering iron is shaped like a sword and operates at 800 W. Designed for alloying polypropylene pipes with a diameter of 20-63 mm.
Advantages:
- convenient operation
- light weight - 2 kg;
- high-quality assembly.
Flaws:
- high price;
- long warm-up.
2. Dytron Polys P-4a 1200W TraceWeld Solo blue
The tool is a professional one. Country of origin: Czech Republic. The soldering iron from this company is cheaper than the German one, but it is not equipped with attachments and a case.
Advantages:
- powerful heating;
- maintaining the set temperature throughout the entire period of operation.
Flaws:
- lack of a complete set;
- uncomfortable stand.
Selection by country of manufacturer
Some buyers prefer to choose equipment based on the manufacturer. The most common products on the market are from the following countries:
- Germany;
- Czech Republic;
- Türkiye;
- Russia;
- China.
This list, which takes into account user reviews, is compiled in descending order of tool quality and does not take into account prices for specific models.
When choosing a manufacturer, you should not try to buy a tool made in countries that occupy the top positions. Of course, this is a high-quality tool, but its price is very high.
Soldering irons of this quality are used for professional purposes when performing large volumes of work. They can work properly for many years and even decades, and then their purchase is justified.
If you choose a tool for installing polypropylene pipelines in one house, that is, practically to perform a one-time job, then there is no point in paying such money for it. After all, a good set made in Germany can cost 30,000 rubles or more.
